Project Designer

Location: Washington, DC (Showroom & project sites)

Type: Full-time

Department: Design | Reports to: General Manager

Interested candidates should submit a resume and portfolio for consideration to [email protected].

About the Role:

Ateliers Jacob DC is looking for a talented Project Designer to join our design team! This is a wonderful opportunity for someone who loves building genuine relationships, has a great eye for design, and enjoys guiding clients and trade partners toward beautiful, functional solutions they might not have imagined on their own.

In this role, you'll own the full journey of your projects — from the very first conversation all the way through the final walkthrough and beyond. You'll partner closely with a Senior Technical Designer and Project Manager, so you're never doing it alone, while you lead the client relationship, the design vision, and the overall momentum of each project.

We work with both trade professionals (designers, architects, builders) and homeowners directly, so you'll get to build a wide and rewarding network across the DC design community.

What You'll Do:

• Build trusted, lasting relationships with clients and trade partners — from first inquiry through post-installation follow-up
• Lead discovery conversations with genuine curiosity to understand each client's goals, budget, and vision
• Guide decisions on materials, finishes, and design details with confidence and clarity
• Develop complete design documentation (floor plans, elevations, specifications) using CAD software
• Keep projects moving forward — coordinating timelines, decisions, and the right people at the right moments
• Lead proposals and pricing conversations, always focused on communicating value and craftsmanship
• Help grow the business by nurturing relationships that lead to repeat projects and referrals
• Represent Ateliers Jacob DC at showroom events and industry gatherings

What We're Looking For:

Must-haves:

• 5+ years of experience in kitchen/cabinetry design, or a related high-end residential design field
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• A strong design portfolio showing refined aesthetic judgment in kitchen, cabinetry, interior, or related residential design
• Comfort working in CAD software (Vectorworks, Chief Architect, or similar)
• Experience working directly with clients as a trusted advisor
• Ability to juggle multiple projects with great attention to detail
• A collaborative mindset — you're excited to partner with technical experts and work within shared systems
• BA in Interior Design, Architecture or related industry

Nice-to-haves:

• Technical experience with custom cabinetry and millwork
• Background supporting trade professionals in a B2B design environment
• An existing network of designers, architects, or builders in the DC area
• Familiarity with the Georgetown / DC luxury residential market
• Experience with Octopus or similar project management platforms

Why You'll Love Working Here:

At Ateliers Jacob, exceptional design is built on strong relationships. You’ll take ownership of your projects, collaborate with a talented and supportive team, and become part of DC’s vibrant design community. It’s an opportunity to do meaningful work, make an impact, and grow your career in a studio grounded in craftsmanship, creativity, and a highly personal approach to design.